1. Put the beans and four cups water in a pot and bring to boil. Turn off heat and let sit, covered, for one hour.
2. Bring the contents of the pot to boil again. Cover, turn heat to low, and simmer for 45 minutes.
3. Add the vegetables and herbs.
4. Simmer for 20 minutes or until beans are tender, adding more water if needed.
5. Season to taste with salt, pepper, vinegar, and olive oil.
6. Simmer for another 15 minutes to let flavors blend.
Adapted from the December 26, 1982 New York Times version of a Madhur Jaffrey recipe.